OMD – Metroland (single) (100% Records)

The first single from the band’s upcoming twelfth studio album ‘English Electric’ is vintage OMD synthpop and yet completely and utterly relevant here in 2013.

The first thing to prick up your ears on “Metroland” will be the strong Kraftwerk (think “Europe Endless“) influence that characterised much of OMD’s 1980 debut self-titled album. The Kraftwerk-like precision however is perfectly contrasted with lush, nostalgia-inducing synth melodies and Andy McCluskey’s impassioned vocals (and equally moving lyrics to boot).

At 7:32 in duration its motorik rhythms only serve to make the song’s final 90 seconds even more epic; guaranteed to both elevate and engulf the listener with its wave of emotion, here McCluskey’s vocals soar. We’ll venture to say that McCluskey’s voice has never sounded so good. It’s crazy to think that in the band’s third decade of existence he’s hitting notes higher than ever before.

An absolutely stunning return and though we’re only in February, “Metroland” will most certainly be a strong contender for single of the year.